Projects

Characterization of the spatiotemporal regulation of epigenetic resetting and clonal propagation of germ cells

We want to address the fundamental questions: how epigenetic resetting including X-chromosome activation is coordinated with migration? Does it exist clonal behavior during germ cell formation? With advance of technology including cellular barcoding and single-cell technology, we want to reveal the principles underlying the stringent quality assurance of the germline, which is often derailed in germ cell tumors.

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In vitro differentiation of germ cells towards maturation for disease modelling

In vitro directed differentiation assay serves as a platform to model germline formation, understand causes of infertility and reveal genetic and epigenetic errors that originate in the germline. We are currently establishing a stabilized pluripotency condition for primordial germ cell-like cell (PGCLC) specification and derived iPSCs for disease modelling such as Klinefelter syndrome.

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Transgenerational developmental programming and germline epigenetics

We are using PCOS-like mouse models to study the adverse maternal health condition such as hyperandrogenism on transgenerational developmental programming and germline epigenetic moderation. We are now investigating the molecular details underlying the disease transmission and disentangling the effects between uterine environment and the germline reprogramming. This work is in close collaboration with Prof. Elisabet Stener-Victorin.

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Molecular and functional characterization of maternal-fetal interaction in PCOS

Functional placentation and endometrial receptivity are essential to maintain a healthy pregnancy and support fetal development. Maternal PCOS condition due to hyperandrogenism is associated with miscarriage, preterm delivery and perinatal mortality. We aim to use both mouse models and human material together with single-cell sequencing and organoid culture to dissect the molecular signature of disease in placenta and endometrium for future targeted therapy. This work is in close collaboration with Prof. Elisabet Stener-Victorin.

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